What opportunities does Albert Lea have for us?

We are continuing our “Why Albert Lea” series. When Randy Kehr’s wife Ellen mentioned moving back to Albert Lea, he asked this same exact question. When the Albert Lea Tribune ran the Albert Lea positivity series, Randy shared his story of what moving back to Albert Lea looked like for them.

“Why would I want to live in Albert Lea?” Those were my words to Ellen during the early years of our marriage. I was working in the hotel business in large cities, and Albert Lea didn’t seem to have anything to offer us. Granted, her family resided here and mine was in the Twin Cities, but little else seemed appealing.

During our early years here, I was fortunate enough to spend time with Ellen’s grandfather, who had been born and raised in Albert Lea. He did a great job of filling me in on the history of the community. I learned of the first-ever community-owned industrial park in the country, as well as the first community owned nonprofit child care center. I also was fortunate enough to get involved with the Albert Lea Community Theatre, both on stage and behind the scenes, and was able to hear of the long and storied history of it.”

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About Robin Russell

Robin is a fifth generation Albert Lean blogging at Russell's Adventures. Robin and her husband homeschool their four children. They enjoy fine food and beverages and the great outdoors. They are often found exploring Minnesota State Parks, attempting crazy science experiments, and enjoying the local Albert Lea small town life.